Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Deputies and Natchitoches Regional Medical Center EMS responded to a possible heat-related medical emergency on July 21 around 2:25 pm in the 2100 block of Harmony Road near Provencal after being dispatched by the NATCOM 911 Center, according to the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office.
According to 911 records, the caller advised communications specialists that a 52-year-old woman had been outside cutting grass. After going back inside the residence, she apparently lost consciousness and passed out.
EMS personnel evaluated the patient at the scene before transporting her to Natchitoches Regional Medical Center for treatment.
With dangerously high temperatures and heat index values affecting our area, the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office reminds residents to take precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Temperature at Time of Call: 96-degrees with heat index at or near 108-degrees.
Heat Safety Tips:
• Drink plenty of water before, during, and after working outdoors.
• Take frequent breaks in the shade or in an air-conditioned area.
• Avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, generally between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing and a wide-brimmed hat when working outdoors.
• Know the warning signs of heat exhaustion, including heavy sweating, dizziness, weakness, headache, nausea, muscle cramps, and fainting.
• If symptoms occur, move to a cool place, drink water, loosen clothing, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or the person becomes unconscious.
• Check frequently on elderly family members, young children, and anyone with medical conditions during periods of extreme heat.
• Never leave children or pets unattended inside a parked vehicle.
The Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office encourages everyone to use caution during periods of extreme heat. Stay hydrated, take frequent breaks, and know the signs of heat-related illness. If you believe someone is experiencing a heat-related emergency, call 911 immediately.
Deputy T. Graves responded on behalf of the NPSO.